I am excited to welcome everyone back for the 2019-20 school year. We have been working to make 2019-20 the best year ever in Haywood County Schools. The year 2020 is only a few months away. I hope all of us will use this notable school year to improve in terms of academic and extra-curricular achievement and in terms of being better people.

While we face many challenges, I believe our best days are before us. We have worked to become one of the best school systems in North Carolina. Our students are successful in a wide range of academic and extra-curricular activities. The best schools and school systems do many things at a high level. That is certainly the case for Haywood County Schools. We excel academically in student academic performance, career and college preparatory courses, state required assessments, career and college entrance exams, and academic competitions. We also excel in extra-curricular activities including traditional sports, student organization competitions, and activities sponsored by the community and student interest clubs.

As your superintendent I plan to make this a year to become a better person. I challenge students, staff, parents, and the community to do the same. Let’s fight for what we believe rather than attacking those who believe differently. Let’s be kind and expect others to do the same. Let’s help those in need and never expect compensation for doing so. Let’s speak supportive words and avoid those who twist the truth for personal benefit. Let’s focus on helping people grow rather than tearing people down. Let’s show children and adults that it is admirable to be a good person. Let’s make the 2019-20 school year the very best.

I am confident there will be very little that we cannot accomplish, if we work together.

Bill Nolte, Ed.D.